The attack on the Slovak Land Registry was a harsh wake-up call, exposing the alarming vulnerability of the state to digital threats. This incident demonstrated that poorly protected systems can become easy targets, with potentially devastating consequences. If an attack on the land registry could paralyze administrative processes, what would happen if the healthcare sector were the next target? Hospitals manage not only sensitive patient data but also provide continuous medical care. Their failure would not just be a “paperwork issue” but a real threat to human lives. If we do not learn from the attack on the land registry, the next target could be healthcare—and its protection must be a top priority.
A Global Target
The year 2024 saw a record surge in cyberattacks on healthcare, with 386 incidents reported worldwide and 183 million patient records exposed. As digitalization expands, the attack surface grows. Ransomware attacks and vulnerabilities in supply chains have put hospitals at global risk. Geopolitical tensions and financial incentives for attackers have further increased the threat, while outdated IT systems and human errors remain critical weaknesses. Studies confirm that organizations with lower security ratings are significantly more prone to data breaches. Investing in robust cybersecurity is essential to counter escalating cyber threats.
There is no reason to believe that our healthcare system is immune. Hospitals are often technologically outdated and chronically underfunded. Many IT systems run on legacy platforms that cannot receive regular security updates. While electronic health records and connected medical devices improve efficiency, they also introduce new vulnerabilities. A cyberattack disabling hospital systems could interrupt patient care, erase medical records, and even endanger lives—especially those relying on digitally controlled medical devices.
How to Prevent a Disaster?
Global experience shows that hospitals must implement the following security measures:
- Zero Trust Architecture – No one should have automatic access to systems. Every access attempt must be verified and authorized.
- IT Infrastructure Modernization – Outdated and unpatched systems should be replaced with secure solutions that support regular updates.
- Cybersecurity Investments – Hospitals must allocate funds not just for IT operations but also for prevention and threat monitoring.
- Staff Training – Many cyberattacks succeed due to human error. Regular training can significantly reduce phishing and ransomware risks.
- Stronger Regulations – Stricter cybersecurity laws can help enforce minimum security standards in hospitals.
We cannot afford to wait for a major cyberattack. The loss of patient data, hospital system shutdowns, or failures of life-saving devices could have tragic consequences. Cyber threats are evolving, and hospitals must prepare before they become the next target.
Our company provides a full range of services to help hospitals secure critical systems and sensitive data
- vScan – Scans IT infrastructure to identify vulnerabilities before attackers do. It continuously monitors networks, maintains an updated inventory of devices, and integrates with existing systems to prevent security incidents.
- Securea – An advanced cyber risk management and compliance tool. It enables healthcare institutions to efficiently manage security processes, assess risks, and optimize cybersecurity investments.
- Security Operations Center (SOC) – 24/7 monitoring of hospital IT systems, cyber threat detection, and rapid incident response. Using advanced analytics, behavioral analysis, and threat intelligence, SOC prevents and mitigates cyberattacks before they cause damage.
- Protegamus – A cyber incident simulation platform that allows IT teams and hospital staff to practice real-world cyberattack responses. Interactive exercises help hospitals strengthen their defenses quickly and effectively.
With our solutions, hospitals can minimize cyber risks and enhance their resilience against evolving threats. Protecting patient data and ensuring uninterrupted medical care must be a top priority. If we want to prevent disaster, we must act now.
